This time I had to use a chair

[Michigan]

I had surgery earlier this month to remove the cancerous part of my right kidney. I love to see the topiary at the flower and garden show every year and this year I didn't feel that I had the stamina to walk the countries to see it. My father has a power wheelchair so I used it and while it was great to be able to go where I wanted to I have a new understanding for my daughters who are both full time wheelchair users. First the sidewalk is bumpy, 2nd and I already knew this when you are in a chair you are invisible to other people.

 

[bidnow5]

It looks like fun to some people but I wish I didn't need a scooter.

 

[I Love Pluto]

Thank you for your complete understanding for those in wheelchairs & ECVs!

No - we do not enjoy our chairs. Yes - I wish I could walk all through every park. No - I do not want to give you a ride! I wish I could say that to the next person who makes me feel awful about my chair!

 

[JillyBean1899]

2nd and I already knew this when you are in a chair you are invisible to other people.

An air horn will solve that problem.

 

[LovesTravel]

Invisible when someone is walking backwards and nearly lands on your lap, or when you are on line at the store and people cut right in front of you. Anything but invisible when people stare and ask really personal questions, or jump out the way and warn others when they see you coming because they think you are going to run over them even when you are not even close to them!

I don't feel that it slows me down, though, unless I have to go up a hill (manual chair).

 

[JillyBean1899]

Anything but invisible when people stare and ask really personal questions

I would just ask a really personal question back. Then again, I'm a bit passive aggressive Plus they started it.

 

[bidnow5]

When you pull up to a checkout counter and the cashier asks the person behind you if they can help them. Or when they walk a little sideways and bump into the side of your scooter then swear at you. Lots of fun

 

[JillyBean1899]

Or when they walk a little sideways and bump into the side of your scooter then swear at you.

That's when you throw a Back to the Future II quote at them ...

"Watch where you're going, you crazy drunk pedestrian"

Yeah, I'd get in *SOOO* much trouble if I ever ended up using a wheelchair in public. Or I'd provide an endless source of entertainment for the people I was with. Or both.

 

[SueM in MN]

Sorry to hear, but glad you were able to get out to see the topiaries.